Partition Mounting System With Rocker Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional systems for installing and removably securing partitions, such as those in guardrails or pedestrian control structures, often damage the partition during installation or removal, and lack efficient mechanisms for future repair or replacement.

Innovation Solution

A mounting system comprising a base, rocker assembly, and clamp assembly that levels and securely attaches partitions, using sliding blocks and fasteners to allow for adjustable clamping and easy removal without damaging the partition, along with optional spacer materials for accommodating various partition sizes and materials.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If conventional mounting systems are used to secure partitions, then the partition is firmly attached, but the partition is damaged during installation or removal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidpartition damage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a mounting system with clamp assemblies that act as intermediaries between the partition and the mounting structure. The clamp assembly includes a stationary block and sliding blocks with fasteners that apply distributed pressure through bearing surfaces, preventing direct contact damage while maintaining secure attachment. The rocker assembly with pivoting component provides a mediating mechanism that allows level adjustment without damaging the partition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system changes the pressure distribution parameters by using multiple contact points through the clamp assembly's sliding blocks and bearing surfaces. This distributes the attachment force across a larger area, reducing pressure concentration that would cause damage. The system also changes the attachment mechanism from direct rigid connection to a controlled clamping action with adjustable parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If conventional fixed mounting systems are used, then the partition is securely attached, but future removal or replacement is difficult or damaging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachmentVSAvoidpartition removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system transitions from a static fixed connection to a dynamic removable connection. The clamp assembly uses threaded fasteners that can be easily tightened or loosened, allowing the partition to be securely attached during use and easily removed when needed. The sliding blocks can move along the stationary block to accommodate different partition thicknesses, providing adaptability for removal and reinstallation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is segmented into separate components: base, rocker assembly, clamp assembly with stationary block, sliding blocks, and fasteners. This segmentation allows the partition to be attached through the clamp assembly without permanent modification, enabling easy removal and replacement while maintaining secure attachment during service.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If a rigid fixed mounting system is used, then the partition is firmly secured, but adjustment for leveling is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure mountingVSAvoidleveling adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The rocker assembly introduces dynamic adjustment capability through its pivoting component that can rotate relative to the stationary component. This allows the partition to be leveled by adjusting the angle of the pivoting component before tightening the fasteners. Once adjusted and secured, the connection becomes rigid, providing both ease of operation during installation and strong secure mounting during service.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system allows preliminary adjustment of the partition level through the pivoting component before final tightening of the fasteners. This preliminary action enables leveling to be performed easily during installation, and once secured, the partition maintains its adjusted position with firm mounting strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Productivity

If a simple mounting system is used, then installation is quick, but it cannot accommodate various partition sizes and materials

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidpartition size and material accommodation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting system is designed as a universal solution that can accommodate various partition sizes and materials. The clamp assembly with sliding blocks can adjust to different partition thicknesses, and the bearing surfaces can work with different materials including glass, metal, or composite partitions. The base and rocker assembly provide a standardized mounting interface that works across different application scenarios, maintaining quick installation while providing broad adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The system effectively secures partitions while allowing for easy installation, adjustment, and future removal without damage, ensuring secure attachment and flexibility in accommodating different partition sizes and materials, thus addressing the limitations of existing technologies.

Implementation Method 1

The pivoting component is configured to rest at least partially flush against an installed partition during operation

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 2

The pivoting component pivotably mates to the stationary component on a side of the stationary component opposite the sidewall

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNormal force: Force

Implementation Method 3

a first fastener head that bears at least partially on a portion of the first sliding block

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Implementation Method 4

a first fastener threaded portion connected to the first fastener head

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectNormal force: Force

Data Source

PatentUS11459766B2Leveling partition mounting system
Publication Date: 2022.10.04 R & B WAGNER
  • US11459766B2 patent drawing
  • US11459766B2 patent drawing
  • US11459766B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for leveling and securing a partition, including a base or shoe for receiving the partition, and a channel or slot formed in the base by at least a first sidewall, an opposing second sidewall, and a lower wall positioned at least in part between the first and second sidewalls. The system further includes a rocker assembly and a clamp assembly positioned within the slot. The rocker assembly includes a stationary component positioned adjacent the first sidewall and a pivoting component pivotably connected to the stationary component on a side of the stationary component opposite the first sidewall. The clamp assembly may include a stationary block adjacent the second sidewall, a first sliding block slidably connected to the stationary block and adjustable by a first fastener, and a second sliding block slidably connected to the stationary block and adjustable by a second fastener.